The Leonardo Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket is a mid-range city hotel in the Haymarket area, on the western side of the centre. Its appeal is practical rather than romantic: you get a comfortable room, a convenient location and a price that is often below that of hotels on Princes Street or the Royal Mile. Haymarket is one of the best-connected parts of Edinburgh, with a railway station and a tram stop that link you to the airport, the city centre and beyond, and it sits at the edge of the West End, so the shops, restaurants and theatres of Shandwick Place and Lothian Road are close, as is the Georgian New Town. The castle and the Royal Mile are within a walk of about twenty minutes, and the route goes through some of the best streets in the city. Leonardo is a European hotel group, and the hotel has the facilities that visitors expect from a mid-range brand, though details can change, so check the room types, breakfast and any parking arrangements when you book. It suits travellers on a budget, families who want a bit of space and visitors who plan to use public transport. If you want a hotel with a strong sense of place, an Old Town boutique stay will offer more atmosphere, but the Leonardo is a sound choice for value and convenience.
Getting around
Haymarket station provides trains to Glasgow, Fife and the north, and the tram runs between the airport and the city centre, stopping in the area, so arrivals and departures are straightforward. For sightseeing, many visitors walk into the centre along Shandwick Place and Princes Street, which takes about fifteen to twenty minutes, or ride the tram or a bus.
The Water of Leith walkway and Dean Village are within walking distance to the north, and Murrayfield stadium is a short journey to the west. Edinburgh's festivals, rugby weekends and concerts put pressure on hotels in this area, so book early for those dates.
What to expect
A practical, modern hotel with the usual comforts. Rooms vary, so look at the categories available and check any views or noise issues, as streets near the station are busy at commuter times. Dining and bar facilities are likely to be on site, but check what is available for your dates. Because the hotel is not in the heart of the Old Town, evenings out usually mean a walk or a short tram or taxi ride.
Price and timing
Rates are mid-range and usually lower than the centre, though they climb in August, on rugby weekends and around Hogmanay. The five per cent visitor levy applies to the first five nights of a stay. This is a good choice for families, groups and visitors who prefer to spend money on experiences rather than on a view, and it works well as a base for day trips by train.
Why stay here
- ✓Close to Haymarket station and tram
- ✓Airport tram link
- ✓Trains to Glasgow and the north
- ✓Walk to Shandwick Place and the West End
- ✓Dean Village within walking distance
- ✓Near Murrayfield stadium
- ✓Mid-range city-hotel facilities
- ✓Dining and bar on site (check when you book)
Good questions
Is the Leonardo close to the tram?+
Yes. The Haymarket area has a tram stop with direct service to the airport and the city centre.
How far is it to the castle?+
About twenty minutes on foot, or a short tram or bus ride.
Is it a good choice for families?+
It is a practical mid-range option with good transport. Check room sizes and family room types when you book.
